Shark ZU503 Teal
Score: 79/100
Black+Decker Upright Vacuum
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away ZU503AMZ is a corded upright with strong suction, HEPA filtration and a self-cleaning brushroll, making it great for pet owners. Its main drawbacks are the heavy weight and relatively short 25-ft cord. Best suited for medium-sized homes where maneuverability and allergen control are priorities.
Black+Decker's bagless upright delivers 1200 W suction, five carpet-height settings, and a washable HEPA filter in a lightweight design. It does not provide automatic height adjustment and has a modest dust-bin capacity. Suitable for multi-surface homes seeking strong suction without the bulk of a bagged model.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,200 Wbest | 1,200 Wbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 95.9 cm | 31.12 cmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 6.8 kg | 4.42 kgbest |
7.62 mbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 80 dBbest | — |
— | 5best | |
120 Vbest | — | |
5best | 5best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
Height (cm) | 95.9 cm | 31.12 cm |
Weight (kg) | 6.80 kg | 4.42 kg |
Filtration(1) | ||
Filter Type | HEPA | HEPA (washable) |
Accessories(1) | ||
Tools Included | Upholstery tool, Pet crevice tool | Crevice tool, Dusting brush, Upholstery tool, Pet brush, Stretch hose |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers note that the ZU503AMZ (via the similar ZU560) delivers respectable airflow of 66.3 CFM and scores well for portability thanks to its Lift-Away pod, but its suction power trails behind premium Shark uprights. The HEPA filtration and anti-allergen seal are praised for indoor air quality, while the corded design is seen as a limitation for quick, cordless-style clean-ups.
Everyday users appreciate the strong suction, easy maneuverability, and hassle-free dust cup emptying, while also noting the acceptable noise level. The most common complaint is the relatively short 25-ft cord, and some find the unit heavy for prolonged use.
“Great suction, maneuverability, easy emptying, and acceptable sound; sole complaint is needing a longer cord”
